Torquay and Devon Holiday Blog

Aztec Studio Supports Cancer Charity Event

Zoe Bowden — Tue, 15 May 2012 09:41:05 +0000

In aid of MIND and Cancer Research UK Beccy Matthews, co-founder of Just Jhoom is running from John O’Groats to Lands End, starting on May 25th to raise money for 2 very worthy causes – MIND and Cancer Research UK. Her aim is to reach a target amount of £10,000 for charity.

You can read more Beccy’s efforts on Facebook

To help Beccy in her quest, Just Jhoom instructors across the country are running events to support her and on Friday 1st June at 7pm our own Just Jhoom instructor Amy Robinson will be running her class at the Aztec Studio, at the Carlton Hotel, Torquay as a special fundraiser where all class fees go towards the Jogle charities. Plus if people want to make extra donations there is an opportunity for this too!

Please come along and support the Jogle, you also may even see Beccy running through Torquay on Monday 4th June before she reaches Lands End on the Tuesday!

To book a space on this class please contact Aztec on 01803 400190

To see all of the latest events for non-residents at TLH Leisure Resort in Torquay, take a look at our Events Diary page.

Amy Robinson

Aztec Studio Supports Cancer Charity Event is a post from: Torquay and Devon Holiday Blog

Oh We Do Like To Be Beside The Seaside

Julia — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 09:09:57 +0000

Beautful Beaches

It’s official – reported on the BBC News today, researchers from the British Psychological Society have found the bracing seaside air together with the sights and sounds of water have a more positive effect on people than the countryside or an urban park, encouraging a sense of relaxation and calm. The study found that in six different age groups the seaside was always identified as being a more positive experience than other inland parks or country walks.

I’m not sure this tells most of us anything we don’t already know, especially those of us who are lucky enough to live in or around the beautiful English Riviera and the glorious coastal region of South Devon.

Having a wonderful time - wish you were here?

For my own part I was born and bred in the Midlands, and have so many happy memories of the excitement surrounding our annual family Summer holiday in Goodrington. For me the seaside was an enchanting place far removed from town life and home. Cliff walks, rock pooling, Paignton Pier, sandcastles on the beach, paddling, learning to swim – all of these magical experiences combined to make this such a special time. Even sitting in a beach hut watching the rain beating down on the sands was so much better than Birmingham on a drizzly day. And I remember how my Dad seemed to undergo a complete transformation when for 2 weeks he relaxed and became a kid again himself, laughing, playing practical jokes and never seeming to get impatient with us kids.

In the early 1970’s I was lucky enough to move down to my beloved Torbay and have been here ever since. Now my pleasure comes from watching my grandchildren relive all my childhood memories, walking the coastal footpaths, sitting on a sea wall watching the waves crash over the rocks, or watching holiday makers here at TLH Leisure Resort enjoy all the pleasures of a seaside holiday themselves.

If you’re thinking about taking a break this year, be sure to come and visit us here in the heart of Torquay when for a few days, a week or longer you can create your own magical seaside spell, experience the benefits of the fresh sea air and perhaps revisit your own childhood memories. Here at TLH Leisure Resort we are located just 400 yards from Abbey Sands in Torquay and within easy reach of many other coastal beauty spots in and around Torbay. Stay in one of our 2 or 3 star hotels or – if you prefer a little more freedom, we have a number of self-catering apartments.

Buckets and spades are welcome, and it won’t take a national survey to tell you that you’ll have a wonderful time. You can give us a call on 01803 400500.

Buckets & Spades Welcome!

Oh We Do Like To Be Beside The Seaside is a post from: Torquay and Devon Holiday Blog

2012 – The Year Of The Great British Holiday in Torquay

Julia — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 13:29:13 +0000

Outdoor Pool at TLH

I’m sat here looking out of the window at a crystal clear blue sky, with the sun beating down on the terraces by the outdoor swimming pool. All is well with the world here at TLH Leisure Resort and this early breath of Summer has been a real boost to us all after the drab old Winter. It makes me realise that our National Tourist Board – Visit Britain – are right on the mark with their current campaign, “Holidays at home are great”.

Why go abroad when there’s so much to celebrate about holidays at home. Down here on the English Riviera we have more than our fair share of beautiful beaches, stunning coastal scenery and award-winning local attractions. What more do we need?

This year is an especially big year for Britain, with the Olympics coming to London and the Queen celebrating her Diamond Jubilee. Torquay and TLH Leisure Resort will be making the most of the extended Jubilee Bank Holiday weekend, joining in the celebrations taking place across the country on Monday 4 June. Exciting events include the Jubilee Vintage Car Rally, which will take place on the Bank Holiday Monday, street parties, and the lighting of our own beacon with a gala fireworks display.

Amongst the many other unique celebrations taking place here on the English Riviera, South Devon’s beautiful bay, we will also be playing host to artist Kurt Perschke’s infamous RedBall sculpture, and Kids can join in “Dig for a Diamond.”

Although not at the heart of the main Olympic events, we are proud that the Olympic Torch will be making its way to our beautiful bay with torchbearers carrying the flame through Paignton and Torquay on Sunday 20th May.

We will also be putting on our own Olympic Events here at TLH as part of our Aztec Active programme of family activities taking place during the Summer holidays. There will be daily Aztec Active Olympic events, with an award ceremony every evening and medals for the winners.

There’s no better time to take a break so take a look at our special 2012 offers – a range of breaks offering discounts of 20.12% or more off our normal brochure prices.

2012 – The Year Of The Great British Holiday in Torquay is a post from: Torquay and Devon Holiday Blog

The Best Way for ‘Staying’ Alive’

Lee — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 12:48:36 +0000

Ian Best (brother of the footballer George Best) suffered a cardiac arrest 18 months ago in a Blackpool Hotel whilst on holiday with his wife. Thankfully for him the hotel he was staying in had recently purchased an AED machine. An automated external defibrillator or AED is a portable electronic device that automatically diagnoses the potentially life threatening cardiac symptoms in a patient, and is able to treat them with the application of electrical therapy. In conjunction with cardiopulmonary resuscitation or CPR from the first aiders Ian survived his attack.

When he returned home to Torquay he asked hotels in the area whether they possessed these devices. To his astonishment not one machine was located in a public place… well not until now!

TLH Leisure Resort is proud to have worked with Ian Best in the purchase and the training of TLH staff on how to use the AED machines. TLH Leisure Resort now has one which covers all four hotels and the Aztec pool area.

You have probably seen the Vinnie Jones “Stayin’ Alive” advert, which promotes and encourages people to perform a CPR should they come across someone who has had a cardiac arrest which is an excellent initiative and every person in the UK should know this as a basic skill. However having the AED available to use in under four minutes really increases the person’s chance of survival. Vinnie Jones- Stayin\’ Alive

If you would like to support Ian’s campaign or want to know more information then feel free to contact me and I will put you in touch with Ian.

Hopefully it is a piece of kit we will never have to use, but we all feel more confident just knowing it is there.

Ian and TLH would like to thank Cardiac Science, Paul Watts at SP Services and Steve Furnell at Resuscitation and Medical Consultancy LTD for all their assistance and support.

The Best Way for ‘Staying’ Alive’ is a post from: Torquay and Devon Holiday Blog

Mother’s do deserve it!

Tracy — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 11:40:13 +0000

Are we really thankful for everything our Mother’s do? We always hear the words ‘work life balance’ but are we grateful for all the juggling they do, coping with all the tasks of the day?

There are so many other roles they have to play as a teacher, troubleshooter, nutritionist, entertainer, planner, cleaner, cook and even boss. There are sacrifices they have to make and even go through dilemmas to make the right decisions for their child.

Come on daughters, sons, granddaughters and grandsons let’s honour our mothers and celebrate

motherhood and appreciate the hard work they do.

So why not treat your

Mum to a special Mother’s Daylunch at the Toorak Hotel, Torquay? With its elegant restaurant and comfortable lounges, it’s the perfect venue for a whole generation of Mums!

Make the day truly special on

Sunday 18th of March and enjoy a delicious 2 course meal for just £12.95 per person. You can have a look at the menu here.

With an excellent reputation and attentive service, why go anywhere else?

The Toorak Hotel, Torquay- Part of

TLH Leisure Resort

Book today on 01803 400400

Mother’s do deserve it! is a post from: Torquay and Devon Holiday Blog

Middle Eastern Sunshine

Tracy — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:01:15 +0000

Despite the chilly climate we wait patiently for the sunnier months ahead. Don’t worry sun lovers as International dance teacher Afra Al Kaihira will be bringing some Middle Eastern sunshine next month to Torquay!

Trying out belly dancing is an amazing experience and something a little different for filling the dull winter weekends off .

Locals have an opportunity to learn this graceful and elegant dance throughout a weekend in March at the Toorak hotel, Torquay.

Host Afra Al Kahira is a renowned teacher and performer, with over 30 years experience. She has danced for top politicians, members of the royal family and other VIP’s and dignitaries. She is also highly respected for her warm and approachable teaching style.

The dancing weekend includes tuition and a talk on the history, costume and styles of belly dancing. During the Saturday night, you will be entertained with a GALA show, featuring performances by Afra and invited guests in a variety of different styles. At the end of the weekend you will be able to put all of your skills learnt together to perform a routine.

You also have the option to dine at the hotel during the Friday and Saturday evening.

What a better way to drive the winter away. It could be the girlie-get-together that still hasn’t been arranged yet, a fun way to exercise or the chance to surprise your partner with some exotic moves!

Learn to Belly Dance Weekend 2-4 March 2012.

Check out the TLH website for more details or call 01803 400500.

Middle Eastern Sunshine is a post from: Torquay and Devon Holiday Blog

New Acupunture Sessions at Torquay’s Aztec Spa

Julia — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:39:52 +0000

In its 5th position in the Chinese Zodiac, the Dragon is the mightiest of the signs. Symbolising characteristics such as dominance and ambition, dragons prefer to live by their own rules and if left on their own, are usually successful. They’re driven, unafraid of challenges, and willing to take risks.

Considering their hard-working nature, Dragons are pretty healthy overall. However, even they can get stressed and suffer from periodic tension, and could benefit from incorporating activities which can work on both their minds and their bodies.

To many of us acupuncture may sound strange or alien and some people are still very suspicious of these “new-fangled” medicines and treatments. However more and more of us are turning towards ancient remedies which have their roots well established way back through the centuries.

If you think of your body like the national grid with its own cable network, acupuncture treatment can get to the hub of all manner of ailments and is excellent at improving general health and well being. It allows us to influence and heal the physical and emotional workings of our personal lives by affecting the very stuff of life itself. Like all forms of ancient Chinese medicines it aims to treat problems holistically, channeling positive energies.

The Aztec Spa in Torquay believes in embracing all nature of therapies and treatments, offering a wide ranging service to its clients, which now includes this ancient form of medicine.

Licensed Acupuncturist Hannah Lamble joins the team, focused on providing individual treatments which specialise in work related stress and psychological problems, fertility, pain and sports injury. Her ultimate aim is to bring patients back to optimum health.

Her treatments can be used to aid a range of ailments including lower back pain, headaches and migraine, chronic pain, fatigue, depression and anxiety, and digestive disorders. Initial consultation and treatment lasts for 90 minutes and costs just £45 – small price to pay when our general health and well-being is so important.

Call the Aztec Spa on 01803 400190.

New Acupunture Sessions at Torquay’s Aztec Spa is a post from: Torquay and Devon Holiday Blog

Steve Laister and Friends at the Toorak Hotel

Nigel Beck — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:32:01 +0000

Steve Laister

With all this gloom and doom we deserve a chuckle or two. The unforgettable Steve Laister, winner of the national ‘Comedian of the Year’, is both talented as a singer and comedian. He will be entertaining the residents of Torquay with a full supporting cast at TLH Leisure Resort on Saturday 10^th March.

The cabaret dinner will be held at the stylish Toorak Hotel which is one of the four hotels on the seven-acre resort in Torquay. The three course dinner in the Abbey restaurant will be prepared by head chef Nick Coombes and combines all that’s best about Devon produce including the chef’s ‘To Die For’ homemade fudge.

The entertainment is in the intimate venue of the Arlington suite hosted by Steve Laister and joined by comedy magician Keith King, comedian Tank Sherman and the vocal talents of Zoe Harris.

If you’re looking for a ‘grown up’ night out why not enjoy a perfect mix of good food and wine, cabaret, comedy and magic at the Toorak Hotel?

Tickets available at £24.95pp from the Toorak Hotel on 01803 400400 or email toorakreception@tlh.co.uk

Steve Laister and Friends at the Toorak Hotel is a post from: Torquay and Devon Holiday Blog

Belly Dance Break

Vicky — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:35:02 +0000

Not sure about booking the male stripper for your hen night?

As brides we want a fun and memorable occasion for the last fleeting moments of our ‘freedom’. The lively and even racy nights with flowing alcohol may not be up everyone’s street. Some may just want a simple and quiet dinner with the girls or a weekend away of pampering or encountering a new experience with close friends. There are so many hen experience packages available from cocktail making, learning to surf and even learning a new dance.

Trying out Belly dancing would be an amazing experience and something a little different from the usual pampering hen party weekends.

Afra - Silk Wings

Hosted by International dance teacher Afra Al Kahira, you and the girls can enjoy a new and exciting Learn to Belly Dance break at the Toorak Hotel. The break includes welcome drinks, tuition, dinner and a talk on the history, costume and styles of belly dancing. On the Saturday night, you will be entertained with a GALA show, featuring performances by Afra and invited guests in a variety of different styles. At the end of the weekend you will be able to put all of your skills learnt together to perform a routine.

What a better way to surprise your guests and even your husband on the big day! If that sounds scary, maybe persuade your girl friends to perform instead!

Check out the TLH website for more details or call 01803 400500.

Belly Dance Break is a post from: Torquay and Devon Holiday Blog

War Horse Putting Dartmoor On the Map

Nigel Beck — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 09:59:02 +0000

Dartmoor is set to become a must see destination in 2012 thanks to the release of the new Spielberg film War Horse.

The film is released in the UK on 13th January and focuses on the moving story of a Devon farm boy who joins the army in an effort to search for his horse, Joey, after he is sold into the cavalry and shipped to France during the First World War. The Michael Morpurgo story has already been adapted for the stage and has been a hit in London’s West End. The ambitious film will definitely be a tearjerker and early reviews tip it for an Oscar.

Steven Spielberg spent many weeks on Dartmoor, back in August 2010 and by all accounts was spellbound by its beauty, saying, “I have never before, in my long and eclectic career, been gifted with such an abundance of natural beauty as I experienced filming War Horse on Dartmoor.”

In fact, South Devon has been the site for scenes shot in many films and TV shows. Torquay and indeed the English Riviera as a whole have inspired such hits as Fawlty Towers as well as being the backdrop for such things as Miss Marple, Churchill: The Hollywood Years (Christian Slater & Neve Campbell…), Blackball (Paul Kaye, Vince Vaughn, Johnny Vegas…) and TV programmes such as the BBC’s The Zoo Keepers (filmed at Paignton Zoo) and Channel 5′s Milkshake Monkey (Children’s prog, 2009). Those of us on the wrong side of 40 will also no doubt remember the Onedin Line, shot in Dartmouth! And bringing us bang up to date, we have Channel 4’s The Hotel causing quite a stir and the recent episode of BBC’s Sherlock showed Dartmoor in all it’s haunting beauty.

Some of these locations are on your doorstep when you stay in Torquay and even those in more rural locations are still only within a short driving distance. You too can experience the beauty that Devon has to offer, visit the sites and inspiration for so many films and set the scene for your own great holiday by staying at TLH Leisure Resort , so well placed for access to many parts of Devon and Cornwall. Why not come down and plan your own location break? There’s nothing quite like visiting the places you’ve seen and enjoyed on the big screen.

Take a look at your holiday options here or call 01803 400500 to find out more.

War Horse Putting Dartmoor On the Map is a post from: Torquay and Devon Holiday Blog